Calgary-based energy tech startup PrePad was named “Best in Show” at this year’s SPE ATCE Startup Village held in Houston, earning top honours among a global field of innovators developing technologies to advance the energy sector.
The Startup Village, part of the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ (SPE) Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE), showcased 10 emerging companies from around the world, each presenting a pitch followed by a Q&A with a panel of industry judges. The event gave attendees a first-hand look at the next wave of oil, gas, and low-carbon technology innovators.
PrePad, led by CEO Sean Hervo, took home the $25,000 Best in Show prize, edging out competitors such as Aqualung Carbon Capture from the U.S. and Daphne Technology from Switzerland. The competition was organized in partnership with the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship at Rice University in Houston.
“This recognition is a proud moment for our team at PrePad,” said Hervo. “It was great to stand alongside so many forward-thinking innovators at ATCE 2025. This is another step in our journey and a reflection of how far we’ve come and where we’re headed.”
PrePad’s software platform helps operators plan and optimize drilling and completions programs — replacing slow, spreadsheet-based workflows with collaborative, data-driven tools that reduce costs, improve capital efficiency, and minimize environmental impact.
The recognition further cements PrePad’s position as one of Canada’s most forward-thinking energy technology startups. Recently the company received the 2025 Meritorious Award for Engineering Innovation in the Digital Oilfield category from Hart Energy, recognizing the company’s Completions Module — the first completions process simulator designed to help operators model, simulate, and compare well decisions in seconds.
It’s also made progress on the funding front. PrePad was selected for Chevron Technology Ventures’ Catalyst Program, designed to accelerate technology innovation in the energy sector. In April 2025, the company announced it had raised C$3.9 million in seed funding, capital that is being used to expand its platform and grow its North American footprint.
The SPE ATCE Startup Village continues to serve as a launchpad for early-stage companies transforming the energy landscape through digitalization, automation, and emissions-reduction technologies. With strong industry backing and growing visibility, the competition has become a premier showcase for innovation in the global energy sector.
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